Silane-derived sol-gel coatings have established themselves as a promising platform for chromate-free corrosion protection. A recent review by Mehek and colleagues provides a comprehensive, mechanistically integrated assessment of these strategies, positioning silane coatings not as passive barrier films but as chemically programmable interphases. Reading tip: Silicone Resins and Their CombinationsDiscover the unique properties and applications of silicone resins in coatings formulations with “”Silicone Resins and Their Combinations.”” From nanocomposites to stimuli-responsive systemsThe review also examines nanoparticle-enabled nanocomposites and nanocontainer systems, post-grafting routes, stimuli-responsive chemistries, biofunctional motifs and co-functionalised formulations. Key priorities highlighted for next-generation silane coatings include durability validation under complex exposure conditions, operando characterisation techniques and data-driven formulation discovery.